Boost for functionality
MAZDA Australia will introduce a new BT-50 LE variant from February, offering ute customers what it says is greater functionality and additional value for money.
Based on the BT-50 XTR and priced from $64,295 plus on-road costs, the LE variant includes as standard several official Mazda accessories including a single-hoop polished alloy bull bar, polished sports bar and heavyduty tub liner.
Mazda says its polished alloy bull bar is designed specifically with the local market in mind and is completely integrated with the BT-50’S safety systems.
The unit ensures crumple zones, airbags and assistance systems operate as normal, while also ensuring ‘no adverse effect on engine or transmission cooling’.
The bull bar is complemented by a stainless steel sports bar with integrated brake light to complete what Mazda says is a ‘tough yet elegant’ exterior look.
Additions to the BT-50 LE join equipment inclusions for the XTR variant along with dual-zone climate control, satellite navigation, advanced keyless entry, reversing camera and Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatibility.
The BT-50 LE is offered only in dual-cab pick-up body style with a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine under the bonnet.
The variant is offered exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, in an ‘ingot silver metallic’ paint finish.
Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi said the BT-50 LE represented a $2500 saving when compared to specifying the same accessories separately.
“One of the many strings to the Mazda BT-50’S bow is the sheer breadth of customisation options available through the ‘Mazda genuine accessories’ program — all of which come with a five-year warranty when fitted at delivery,” he said.
“With the new Mazda BT-50 LE, we’re offering the best of both worlds — an enhanced and individual look, combined with even more added versatility.”
In 2022, Mazda sold 10,533 units of the BT-50 four-wheel drive in Australia, placing the model well behind rivals that include the Toyota Hilux, with 47,329 sales; Ford Ranger, with 43,128 sales; and Mitsubishi Triton, with 29,953 sales.
Interestingly, the BT-50 also falls well short of the sales figures achieved by its twin-under-the-skin Isuzu D-max, which sold 20,124 units across the same period.
Two-wheel drive versions of the BT-50 have likewise failed to ignite sales success with Australian buyers, the model range tallying just 2404 unit sales last year.
The segment is dominated by the Toyota Hilux, with 17,062 units, ahead of a distant second-place Ford Ranger, with 4351 sales; Isuzu Dmax, with 4212 sales; and Mitsubishi Triton, with 3383 sales.